Viking names seven new river ships in multi-country ceremony

Viking has officially named seven new river cruise ships in a multi-country ceremony spanning the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Egypt. In a departure from tradition, the Norwegian cruise line appointed seven travel advisor partners as godparents for the new vessels, rather than celebrities or dignitaries.

Among the appointees are two Australian travel industry leaders: Dani Galloway of Flight Centre Travel Group, who was named godmother to the Viking Sjofn, and Michael Londregan of Virtuoso, who became godfather to the Viking Ptah. The ceremonies included the use of Gammel Opland aquavit, Norway’s national spirit, for the christening.

The simultaneous events, held in Amsterdam and remotely from various locations, highlight Viking’s expanding river operations across Europe and the Nile. The decision to honor travel advisors was intended to recognize the professional partnerships and the role of the trade community in the company’s growth.